As a self-taught sewist, I learned how to make things through the info I found online and a lot of trial and error. My handmade wardrobe wouldn’t be possible without my favorite machines so I wanted to share my best recommendations to help those interested in sewing clothing and more.

These machines are chosen based on affordability and ease of use based on my personal experience. I am not an ambassador for Brother. I’m just a fan of their intuitive designs and will only earn an affiliate commission through Amazon if you use my links. Thank you if you do!

*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

My Recommendations:

• Sewing machine: Brother CS7000X
• Serger/Overlocker: Brother 1034D
• Coverstitch: Brother 2340CV

Sewing Machine

For an all-around sewing machine, the Brother CS7000X is my recommendation for beginners and up. I tell everyone looking to get into sewing to get this machine. At around $200, it is the best bang for your buck with all the features and accessories you could want. I used the older model (CS6000i) to make all my clothes and never felt the need to upgrade to a pricier machine.

Notable features:

• Adjustable speed setting. A must-have for beginners.
• Includes walking foot.

Serger/Overlocker

The Brother 1034D is probably the most popular serger on the market (also known as an overlock machine) and is widely referred to as a workhorse. If you’re looking to get your first serger, this is your best option at $200-300. I have seen it cost as low as $200 around the holiday season so keep an eye out for sales.

Sergers are best for finishing edges and sewing knits. It is different from a sewing machine because it cuts fabric off while sewing the edges in a unique stitch that keeps edges from fraying. This stitch is also great for knitwear because it’s stretchy. You can see this type of stitch on most store-bought garments.

If you’re making clothing, it’s a game changer to have a serger but it also isn’t a necessity. It really depends on your preferences and what you like to sew. For me, I’ve loved having it and feel no need to upgrade from this machine.

Why I like this serger:

• Easy to use. Threading is the biggest learning curve when it comes to using a serger. The color-coded illustrations of this model make it easy to understand.
• Video tutorials. Because this is such a popular model, you can easily find tutorials whenever you encounter a question.

Coverstitch

If you sew a lot of knits and want a more professional finish on necklines and hemlines, then you’re probably thinking about getting a coverstitch machine. I did a ton of research before deciding on the Brother Coverstitch 2340CV.

This is by far the priciest machine on this list and also my least-used machine. That being said, your level of use really depends on what you sew. I don’t sew a lot of knits, but when I do, I love using this machine to finish off hemlines. The stretchy stitch is ideal and has held up a lot better than anything I could do with my regular sewing machine.

If this machine intimidates you, then you’ll be happy to hear this is easier to thread than the serger. You only need to change two threads, which is similar in threading to a regular sewing machine. If you decide to change the third thread as well, then you just follow the color-coded guide.

Did you find this helpful? If so, check out more of my sewing recommendations. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for reading!